PREPARATION OF THE OLD GARDEN 21 



plowing, add leaves and ratings, strawy manure, 

 and old bedding and litter from the hen-house. 

 Put everything of this sort well beneath the 

 surface. All manures and vegetable fibers not en- 

 tirely decomposed should always be put under by 

 deep plowing. There, away from the surface and 

 the loss through evaporation, chemical action may 

 produce plant-food without waste. 



Autumn is a good time to look out for better 

 drainage. Naturally drained soil is, of course, 

 most satisfactory. However, much can be done 

 through artificial means to improve the condition 

 in this respect. All open ditches should be kept 

 clear, free from growth or anything that would 

 hinder the rapid flow of the water. Kidging also 

 aids in improving texture by disposing of surface 

 water. These means, however, are only tempo- 

 rary. Permanent under-surface drainage is better 

 and more lasting and accomplishes much in 

 improving the soil texture. Stone ditches, if 

 placed a good distance beneath the surface, do 

 fairly well in carrying off the surplus water, 

 unless the dirt clogs among the stones. These 

 break down, however well built, after a time. The 

 best and most permanent drains are those con- 

 structed of tile. They cost more at the start, but 

 they last much longer and are far more satisfac- 

 tory. The deeper the tiles are laid, comparatively 

 speaking, the better will be the results. Place 

 them from 3 to 4 feet deep, and near enough to 



